SSC CGL Tier 1 2014 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

Sensory memory is the initial stage of memory that acts as a temporary buffer for stimuli received through the senses. As the passage indicates, the brain registers everything within the scope of vision effortlessly and automatically, a process that creates fleeting impressions known as sensory memory. This type of memory lasts only for a very brief moment—often less than a second for visual information—providing a continuous stream of data from the environment. Unless conscious attention is directed toward this sensory input to transition it into short-term or working memory, the information is quickly lost to make room for new incoming stimuli.

Explanation

The error in part (c) lies in the use of the gerund short-circuiting. While short-circuiting is the present participle form used to describe the action or process of a circuit being bypassed, the sentence refers to a specific electrical hazard or fault that the device is designed to prevent. In such contexts, the compound noun short circuit is the appropriate technical term. To accurately describe the event or the risk being eliminated, the sentence should use the noun form, resulting in the phrase the risk of a short circuit.

Explanation

The verb congratulate requires the fixed preposition on when referring to the achievement or occasion being celebrated. In standard English grammar, the idiomatic expression is congratulate someone on something. Therefore, the use of the preposition for is incorrect in this context and should be replaced with on to properly link the action of congratulating with the astounding success mentioned.

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the preposition from following the adjective next. In English, when expressing proximity or an adjacent position, the word next must be followed by the preposition to. The phrase next to functions as a compound preposition meaning beside or adjacent. Consequently, the expression next from mine is grammatically incorrect and must be replaced with next to mine to properly indicate the location of the visitor's seat.

Explanation

In English grammar, while both learned and learnt are acceptable as the past tense and past participle forms of the verb learn, they function differently when used as adjectives. When describing a person who possesses great knowledge or is scholarly, the standard adjective form is learned, which is typically pronounced as two syllables. The word learnt is exclusively a verbal form and is not used as an attributive adjective. Since the word in part (b) is used as an adjective to modify the noun man, it must be replaced by learned. This correction also establishes grammatical parallelism with the phrase learned men used in part (c).

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the preposition with in the first part of the sentence. In English, when expressing a reaction or a result of an event on someone's emotions, the idiomatic structure used is To + possessive adjective + noun. Therefore, the phrase should be To our great annoyance instead of With our great annoyance. This construction indicates that the situation described later in the sentence resulted in that specific feeling for the subjects. Similar examples include to my surprise, to his disappointment, or to their relief. The preposition with is typically used to indicate accompaniment or the instrument used for an action, which does not fit the context of expressing a resultant emotion.

Explanation

The sentence describes a situation where an individual's outward behavior reveals an underlying emotional state. Sarcastic remarks are typically used as a tool to express resentment, cynicism, or internal hostility. Therefore, the term bitterness is the most appropriate fit, as it represents the deep-seated negative emotion that is being manifested through the use of sarcasm. The phrase only then was her bitterness revealed indicates that the sarcasm served as a medium for her true, previously hidden feelings of rancor to become apparent.

Explanation

The sentence structure uses the correlative conjunction both... and to connect two different types of people interested in wine. Since the second person mentioned is an experienced connoisseur, who possesses expert knowledge and refined taste, the first person should logically be someone at the opposite end of the experience spectrum. A novice is defined as a person who is new to or inexperienced in a particular field or situation. Therefore, the term virtual novice correctly identifies a beginner, indicating that the book is accessible to those with little knowledge as well as those with extensive expertise.

Explanation

The phrasal verb put out means to extinguish or douse a flame or a light source. In the context of the sentence, the fact that the sun is shining brightly implies that there is sufficient natural light available. Therefore, artificial light is unnecessary, and the request is to extinguish it to save energy or remove the redundant illumination.

Explanation

The phrasal verb bring in means to introduce a new law, rule, or custom. In the context of the sentence, it indicates that a specific practice was officially implemented or introduced to address and curb certain abuses. This usage is standard when describing the establishment of regulations or systematic changes designed to improve a situation or prevent misconduct.

Explanation

The sentence requires a passive perfect infinitive to describe an action that was expected to be completed in the past. To have been delivered correctly expresses that the package was supposed to have reached its destination by yesterday.

Explanation

The word garble refers to the act of distorting, scrambling, or jumbling a message, sound, or transmission so that it becomes unclear or unintelligible. When information is garbled, the original meaning is twisted or misrepresented, making it difficult for the recipient to understand the intended communication. This distortion inherently results in a state of being muddled or jumbled, which is the primary characteristic of making something confused. Therefore, the term best expresses the sense of creating a lack of clarity or causing a person to be unable to think clearly about the subject matter.

Explanation

The word pinnacle refers to the highest point of development or the most successful part of something. It is also used to describe a high, pointed piece of rock or the peak of a mountain. Similarly, a summit is defined as the highest point of a hill or mountain, or the highest level of achievement. Both terms are used interchangeably to denote the apex or zenith of an object or a career.

Explanation

The word brutalize means to treat a person or animal in a very cruel, violent, or inhumane way. It originates from the concept of acting like a brute, implying a total lack of sensitivity or mercy. This definition aligns directly with the term ill-treat, which refers to the act of treating someone badly, cruelly, or without proper care. Both terms describe the practice of inflicting physical or mental suffering through harsh and abusive behavior.

Explanation

Denounce means to publicly declare someone or something to be wrong, evil, or deserving of censure. It involves strong criticism or condemnation. Praise is the direct antonym because it means to express warm approval, admiration, or commendation for the achievements or qualities of someone or something. While denouncing focuses on pointing out faults and expressing disapproval, praising focuses on highlighting virtues and expressing positive recognition.

Explanation

The word abandon means to give up completely, to desert, or to cease to support or look after a person, project, or course of action. It implies a termination or a withdrawal from something already in progress. In contrast, initiate means to cause a process or action to begin or to set something in motion. Because abandon signifies the ending or leaving of an effort, and initiate signifies the start or commencement of one, they function as opposites in the context of performing an action or undertaking a task.

Explanation

The word seamy refers to the sordid, unpleasant, or disreputable aspects of something, often used to describe the morally degraded or corrupt side of life. It implies a state of being base, dishonorable, or characterized by vice and squalor. In contrast, pure denotes something that is clean, untainted, and free from any moral corruption or wickedness. While seamy describes that which is tainted and shameful, pure represents a state of being wholesome and virtuous, making it the direct opposite in meaning.

Explanation

The idiom added fuel to the fire means to act or speak in a way that makes an already bad situation, argument, or conflict much worse. Just as adding flammable material to a literal fire causes it to burn more intensely, this expression implies that a specific action or remark has intensified existing tension or trouble. In the context of the sentence, the secretary's thoughtless remark served to aggravate an already difficult or sensitive state of affairs.

Explanation

The idiom to rub someone up the wrong way means to annoy, irritate, or offend someone, often unintentionally, by doing or saying something that displeases them. It is derived from the physical act of stroking an animal's fur, such as a cat or dog, in the opposite direction of its natural growth. This action causes the animal discomfort and agitation. In a figurative sense, when a person is rubbed the wrong way, their temperament or sensibilities are provoked, leading to a state of irritation or dislike toward the individual responsible for the friction. In the context of the sentence, the master refused to give money because he was irritated by the person's behavior or attitude.

Explanation

The idiom in the swim refers to being actively involved in the main current of affairs or being well-informed about what is happening in a particular social or professional circle. It suggests that a person is up-to-date with the latest news, trends, and activities. In the context of the sentence, Mr. Das is described as a reliable source of news because he maintains a position where he is constantly aware of current developments and remains fully informed about ongoing events.

Explanation

The idiom barking up the wrong tree originated from hunting practices where a dog would bark at the base of a tree believing its prey was hiding there, even though the animal had already escaped to a different tree. In a figurative sense, it means to follow a mistaken line of thought or to direct ones efforts toward the wrong person, place, or solution. It implies that the person is making a fundamental error in their approach or pursuing a path that will not lead to the desired result.

Explanation

The idiom know the ropes means to understand the details, procedures, or specific methods required to perform a task or navigate a particular system or organization. It has a nautical origin, referring to the time when sailors had to learn the complex arrangement of ropes and rigging used to control a ship's sails. In a professional context, it signifies becoming fully acquainted with the standard operating procedures and routines necessary to execute a job effectively.

Explanation

The verb fill is most idiomatically used in the construction fill something with something. In this structure, the container acts as the direct object of the verb, while the substance being put into it is introduced by the preposition with. In the context of the sentence, the pen is the container and the ink is the substance. Therefore, the phrase filled his pen with ink follows standard grammatical patterns and provides the most natural expression of the action.

Explanation

The sentence uses the standard idiomatic construction too + adjective + to-infinitive, which is used to indicate that a quality exists to such a high degree that a certain result or state is impossible or unlikely. In this context, are too good to be cheap correctly conveys the meaning that the quality of the toys is so high that it is improbable for them to have a low price. The grammatical structure is perfectly sound, and the transition from the past tense bought to the present tense are is appropriate because the toys, once purchased, continue to possess the quality of being good in the present. Therefore, the original phrasing is the most effective and grammatically accurate way to express the intended idea.

Explanation

In English grammar, the verb make is the standard collocation used with the noun mistake. While the verb do is generally used for actions, obligations, or repetitive tasks, make is used to express the occurrence of an error or the result of an action. Therefore, the phrase made a mistake is the idiomatic and grammatically correct expression. Additionally, using the indefinite article a is more natural in this context than the specific numeral one.

Explanation

The sentence John has been detained at a meeting is grammatically correct as written. In English, the preposition at is used to indicate a person's presence at a specific location, event, or organized activity, such as at a party, at school, or at a meeting. The verb detained means to be kept from proceeding or delayed. Therefore, being detained at a meeting accurately describes a situation where someone is held up or unable to leave because they are participating in a meeting. The phrase follows standard idiomatic usage and requires no further modification.

Explanation

The simile as devoted as a faithful dog is a well-established idiomatic expression in the English language used to emphasize extreme loyalty and steadfastness. In literature and common usage, dogs are the quintessential symbols of fidelity and devotion. Comparing the butler's character to that of a faithful dog effectively conveys his unwavering commitment to his duties or his master. The sentence is grammatically correct and the comparison is stylistically appropriate, making any substitution unnecessary.

Explanation

The verb furnish, when used in the sense of providing or supplying information or equipment, follows the idiomatic structure furnish someone with something. In this construction, the person receiving the information is the direct object, and the information itself is introduced by the preposition with. Adding the definite article the before details is also grammatically necessary to specify the particular information being discussed by the representative. Thus, the phrase furnished the reporters with all the details correctly adheres to standard English usage.

Explanation

The phrasal verb go out is the standard idiomatic expression used to describe leaving one's home for a brief period to engage in a specific activity, such as leisure, social events, or exercise. In English grammar, the phrase go out for a walk is a common colocation. In contrast, move out typically refers to vacating a residence or relocating to a new home, which is inappropriate in the context of a temporary weather-related disruption to a daily routine. Using go out for my usual walk provides the necessary clarity and follows established linguistic patterns for describing a short trip away from the house.

Explanation

The term grammatical error is the standard idiomatic expression in English used to describe a mistake in the application of the rules of grammar. In this construction, the adjective grammatical correctly modifies the noun error to specify its nature. This form is preferred in formal writing and standardized testing over prepositional phrases or noun-noun compounds for its conciseness and adherence to conventional linguistic usage.

Explanation

The verb denied carries an inherent negative meaning, as it signifies the rejection of a statement or the claim that an action did not happen. In English grammar, using a negative word like not in a subordinate clause following a verb of denial creates a redundant double negative. To correctly convey that the subject stated he was innocent of the act, the clause must be in the affirmative. Consequently, had forged is the correct choice to indicate the action he was disavowing. The use of the past perfect tense is also appropriate here to show that the alleged forgery preceded the act of denial.

Explanation

The phrase received the information is a more formal and stylistically appropriate choice for written English than the colloquial got the information. It accurately describes the process of being informed or acquiring specific knowledge about a situation. In this context, it effectively conveys that the subject was presented with the fact that the object was merely a representation, maintaining the narrative tone of the sentence while providing better grammatical precision.

Explanation

Speleology is the scientific branch of knowledge dedicated to the study of caves and other karst features. It encompasses the exploration, mapping, and documentation of subterranean environments. Researchers in this field examine cave formation processes, geological structures like stalactites and stalagmites, and the specialized biology of organisms that live in total darkness. The term originates from the Greek word spelaion which translates to cave. It integrates various disciplines such as geology, hydrology, and biology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underground world.

Explanation

Oligarchy is a form of government where power is concentrated in the hands of a small, elite group of individuals. The term originates from the Greek words oligos, meaning few, and arkhein, meaning to rule. In such a system, the ruling few are often distinguished by specific characteristics such as wealth, family lineage, corporate interests, religious status, or military control. Unlike systems that rely on broad public participation or a single absolute ruler, an oligarchy functions through the collective influence of this limited circle to maintain social and political authority.

Explanation

Biodegradable refers to substances or materials that are capable of being decomposed by natural chemical processes, specifically through the metabolic activity of living organisms like bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms break down complex organic compounds into simpler substances such as water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter, allowing the material to be recycled back into the environment. This process is a fundamental part of the natural nutrient cycle and ensures that organic waste does not accumulate indefinitely in the ecosystem.

Explanation

Rancid is the specific term used to describe the unpleasant, stale smell or taste that develops in foods containing fats and oils when they undergo oxidation or hydrolysis. This chemical decomposition results in a characteristic rank odor and off-putting flavor, indicating that the substance is no longer fresh.

Explanation

A yoke is a heavy wooden crossbar or frame that is fastened over the necks of two animals, such as oxen or horses, and attached to the plow or vehicle that they are to pull. This device allows the animals to work together by distributing the load across their shoulders, enabling them to pull heavy agricultural machinery or transport vehicles effectively. It has been a fundamental tool in draft animal power for centuries, designed specifically to harness the strength of multiple animals simultaneously.

Explanation

A connoisseur is an individual who possesses expert knowledge and a highly refined sense of taste in fields such as the fine arts, music, or gourmet food. The term describes someone who is qualified to act as a critical judge of quality, technique, and authenticity within these specific areas of culture due to their extensive study and experience.

Explanation

The term rhinologist is derived from the Greek word rhinos, meaning nose, and the suffix logist, which refers to a person who studies or is an expert in a specific branch of knowledge. A rhinologist is a medical professional, often a sub-specialist within the field of otolaryngology, who focuses specifically on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders involving the nose and the paranasal sinuses. This includes managing conditions such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, deviated septums, and various allergies affecting the nasal passage.

Explanation

The word Intelligibility is derived from the Latin root intelligere, which means to understand or perceive. It is formed by taking the adjective intelligible and adding the suffix -ibility, which transforms the adjective into a noun representing a state or quality. The correct spelling requires a double l following the initial vowel sequence, a pattern consistent with related words such as intelligence and intellect. The word uses the i vowel consistently in the suffix, resulting in the construction i-n-t-e-l-l-i-g-i-b-i-l-i-t-y. It refers to the degree to which a piece of writing or speech is clear and comprehensible to a listener or reader.

Explanation

The word extirpate is derived from the Latin term extirpatus, which is the past participle of extirpare. This Latin root is formed by combining the prefix ex, meaning out, with stirps, meaning a stem or root. Consequently, the correct spelling requires the letter i following the first t to reflect its etymological origin. In English, extirpate is used as a verb meaning to pull up by the roots or to destroy completely and wipe out a population or influence from a specific area.

Explanation

The passage explicitly states that according to Robert Lloyd of the Los Angeles Times, soap operas possess a luxury of space that makes them seem more naturalistic. This characteristic stems from the economic demands of the format, which facilitate long scenes and extended conversations. Unlike standard weekly series that might condense dialogue into a few lines, soap operas utilize their length to explore characters and narratives in a way that feels more life-like and detailed.

Explanation

The passage explicitly states that the economics of the soap opera form demand long scenes. According to the text, the financial and structural requirements of daily dramas necessitate drawing out conversations that a standard weekly series might condense into a few lines. By extending these scenes into multiple pages of dialogue, soap operas efficiently fill their extensive airtime while allowing for a more naturalistic development of both major and minor characters.

Explanation

According to the third paragraph of the passage, the structural composition of a soap opera involves managing multiple storylines simultaneously. The text explicitly states that an individual episode of a soap opera will generally switch between several different concurrent narrative threads. These threads may interconnect and affect one another or run entirely independent of each other. This technique is a fundamental part of the soap opera format, allowing the narrative to sustain its open-ended nature by progressing various plots within a single broadcast.

Explanation

The passage specifies that evening soap operas and serials which run for only a portion of the year typically conclude with a dramatic end of season cliff-hanger. This narrative technique is used to maintain audience interest during the hiatus by leaving major plot points unresolved or in a state of suspense, ensuring viewers return for the subsequent season to discover the outcome of the intersecting storylines.

Explanation

The passage explicitly defines the open-ended nature of soap operas as a continuous narrative where stories span across multiple episodes. It cites Albert Moran to explain that this specific television form works with a continuous open narrative, ensuring that each individual episode ends with a promise that the storyline is to be continued in another episode. This characteristic allows the narrative threads to run concurrently and intersect over an extended period.

Explanation

The passage states that the characters "ran nights" and "stopped navigating and tied up" when the "night was most gone." Following this stop, they performed several chores, such as hiding the raft with cottonwood branches and taking a swim to cool off. It is only after these activities were completed that they sat down to watch "the daylight come." This sequence confirms that the act of stopping navigation occurred during the final hours of the night, prior to the actual arrival of dawn.

Explanation

The passage explicitly describes the routine of the characters after their morning swim. According to the text, once they had finished swimming to freshen up and cool off, they sat down on the sandy bottom of the river in water that was about knee deep to watch the daylight arrive. This specific detail regarding the depth of the water and the location on the riverbed directly supports the statement that they sat in knee-deep water.

Explanation

The passage describes the environment during the late night and early morning as being perfectly still with not a sound anywhere. The narrator uses the specific imagery of the whole world being asleep to convey the profound silence and lack of activity surrounding them on the river. This comparison emphasizes the absolute tranquility of the setting, where the only breaking of the silence might be the occasional sound of bullfrogs.

Explanation

The passage explicitly identifies the cause of the streak's appearance in the final sentence of the second paragraph. The narrator explains that a streak on the water is a visual indicator of a snag positioned within a swift current. According to the text, the current breaks upon this snag, and this specific physical interaction is what creates the streak and makes it look that way. The appearance of the water is thus a direct result of the underwater obstacle interrupting the flow of the fast-moving river.